Salomon has made some updates to their Forces line, but the most significant is the Trade Agreements Act compliant versions of the XA Forces Mid GTX and XA Forces Mid GTX EN as well as the Quest 4D GTX Forces 2 and Quest 4D GTX Forces 2 EN. These are their most popular styles purchased by US customers and investing in new manufacturing in Trade Act countries makes them more attainable using US government purchasing vehicles. In this case, the boots are all manufactured in Cambodia.
Based on Salomon’s iconic XA PRO 3D, the XA Forces Mid GTX has been its own style for the past few years as designers have beefed up this lightweight boot for use by SOF. They weigh just 16.8 oz (size 9), but offer a great deal of stability thanks to the 3D Advanced Chassis. You can also see the instep reinforcement for fast roping.
Additionally, there’s no coming untied thanks to the QuickLace system which tightens when pulled but is easily loosened for removal.
The XA Forces Mid GTX is available in Coyote and XA Forces Mid GTX EN is offered in Ranger Green and Black.
If you need something a bit more robust, look at the Quest 4D GTX Forces 2. Although more of a traditional hiking boot design, they are only 7 oz more than the XA Forces Mid at 23.8 oz (size 9).
Tge 4D chassis the boot takes its name from, harnesses two different midsole components for enhanced foot control and active comfort.
The Quest 4D GTX Forces 2 is offered in Coyote, while the Quest 4D GTX Forces 2 EN can be had in Ranger Green and Black.
Additionally, all of the TAA compliant boots feature Gore-Tex membranes.
Salomon widened their last or fit, a few years ago, so you won’t feel tight in the toebox anymore. Offered in Men’s sizes 4-15 (some half sizes). That should be enough for most unit and agency uniform programs. Check them all out at www.salomon.com/en-us/shop/men/collection/forces
Salomon is now owned by a Chinese company, Anta Sports.
Not snarky – Which American company would you recommend that meets the usage / quality / price point? I haven’t done much research in the category.
Salomon has gone crazy wirh their sizing – seems to be built for very small/narrow European feet with high arches. They need to change back to the way it was before.
I only use Altra Lone Pine now.
EXACTLY!!!
I tried on a pair a few years ago and couldn’t even get them on they were so narrow. Too bad.